Thinking of Buying a Mobile Services Business in Australia? Here Are 3 Vital Questions to Ask

The Australian computer and electronic equipment repair industry, which includes mobile phone repair and related mobile services, generated $3.1 billion in revenue in 2025, employing around 10,700 people across more than 4,000 enterprises.

Profit margins average 5.9%, with total profits of $185 million. While the sector has declined by 1.5% annually over the past five years, it is projected to grow 1.5% annually through 2030, driven by renewed demand for repair services as consumers seek to extend device lifespans amid rising living costs.

The market is highly fragmented, with leading firms like Geeks2U (0.9% market share) and Paragon Care (0.7%) accounting for a small portion of total revenue, while thousands of small and mobile operators provide on-site or in-home services across Australia.

1. Is the Business Financially Viable and Adapted to Consumer Trends?

Why It Matters:

Profitability in the mobile repair and services industry depends on cost control, rapid service delivery, and flexibility in addressing new device models. Businesses that keep up with technology while managing supply costs can outperform competitors in a tight-margin environment.

What to Check:

• Revenue and profit – The industry generates $3.1 billion with an average 5.9% margin, though small operators often earn less due to competition and rising parts costs.

• Purchasing costs – Parts and components make up the largest expense, influenced by global supply chains and inflation.

• Wages – Labour costs account for roughly 24% of revenue, with rising demand for skilled technicians in mobile device diagnostics and repair.

• Customer preferences – Despite lower incomes, many consumers continue replacing devices rather than repairing them, reducing potential turnover for basic repair services.

• Hybrid services – Businesses offering remote diagnostics and flexible on-site mobile repair services have outperformed traditional shop-based models.

2. Does the Business Have a Strong Market Presence and Specialisation?

Why It Matters:

Mobile services rely on speed, reliability, and reputation. With low barriers to entry, competition is intense — meaning brand credibility and service differentiation are critical for customer retention.

What to Check:

• Market structure – The top players together hold under 2% market share, leaving the industry dominated by independent and franchise operators.

• Location and reach – Eastern states (NSW, VIC, QLD) account for 80% of enterprises, concentrated near shopping centres, retail precincts, and transport hubs.

• Franchise advantage – Multi-store and mobile franchise systems (such as mall kiosks) offer fast repairs and brand consistency that attract repeat customers.

• Customer mix – Strong relationships with corporate clients, phone retailers, or insurance providers provide stable revenue streams beyond walk-in trade.

• Service diversification – Operators that expand into laptop, tablet, and gaming console repairs can offset fluctuations in phone repair demand.

3. Is the Business Positioned for Future Technology and Regulatory Changes?

Why It Matters:

Rapid advances in technology and proposed government policies such as Australia’s Right-to-Repair initiative are reshaping the industry. Businesses prepared for these shifts will benefit from increased consumer demand and access to previously restricted repair tools.

What to Check:

• Right-to-Repair policy – Expected to boost competition by allowing independent repairers to access manufacturer tools and diagnostic information.

• Sustainability focus – Rising concern over electronic waste is increasing consumer preference for repair over replacement.

• Digital integration – Mobile services using cloud-based management systems and customer booking apps are improving efficiency and client satisfaction.

• Regulatory compliance – Repairs involving high-risk electronic components must comply with the Electrical Equipment Safety Scheme (EESS) standards.

• Automation and training – Businesses investing in diagnostic technology, firmware tools, and staff training can improve turnaround times and profitability.

Ready to Invest in a Thriving Mobile Services Business?

With digital dependency rising and right-to-repair reforms on the horizon, Australia’s mobile repair and servicing market is set for steady recovery.

Success depends on adaptability — combining technical expertise, rapid turnaround, and strong customer relationships while embracing sustainability and automation trends.

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